Norway will enter a new era of defence spending over the next decade, committing an additional 115 billion kroner ($12 billion) in response to a more uncertain security environment.
The updated long-term plan, presented by Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and Defence Minister Tore O. Sandvik, will see Norway move towards spending 3.5% of its GDP on defence by 2035, in line with evolving NATO expectations.
The government says the decision reflects a deteriorating global security situation, particularly following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
A Response To A Changing Security Landscape
Norway, which shares a land and maritime border with Russia in the Arctic, has increasingly focused on strengthening its northern defences and readiness.
“This is a significant priority to strengthen Norway’s defence capabilities in the face of a security situation that has become more serious and unpredictable,” said prime minister Jonas Gahr Støre when unveiling the plan.
The increase builds on an already substantial defence commitment. Norway had previously outlined spending of more than 1.6 trillion kroner ($165 billion) between 2025 and 2036, meaning the total investment will now rise even further.
New Submarines, Frigates & Faster Deployment
A large share of the funding will go towards modernising Norway’s naval and military capabilities.
Plans include the acquisition of six new submarines, with the first expected to be delivered in 2029, alongside at least five new frigates due to enter service in the early 2030s. These investments reflect growing strategic interest in the North Atlantic and Arctic regions.
The updated plan also accelerates the development of the Finnmark Brigade in northern Norway, which is now expected to become fully operational earlier than previously planned.
The move underlines the importance of Norway’s High North, where military activity has increased in recent years.
Focus On Drones, Air Defence & Electronic Warfare
Lessons learned from the war in Ukraine are shaping Norway’s priorities.
The government plans to strengthen short-range air defence, drone defence and electronic warfare capabilities, recognising the growing role of unmanned systems and hybrid threats in modern conflict.
At the same time, some major projects have been delayed. Decisions on long-range air defence systems and certain maritime surveillance drones have been postponed, partly due to high costs and rapidly evolving technology.
Chief of Defence Eirik Kristoffersen said it was important to adapt procurement plans as new technologies emerge, rather than committing too early to systems that could soon become outdated.
Political Support, But Some Criticism
There has been broad political backing for increasing defence spending, reflecting a rare consensus in Norwegian politics on national security.
However, the updated plan has also drawn criticism from opposition politicians, particularly over delays to long-range air defence systems and concerns about army capabilities.
Some argue that protecting major population centres, including the Oslo region, should be a higher priority, especially given Norway’s own success in exporting air defence systems such as NASAMS.
A Long-Term Shift In Priorities
The updated defence plan highlights a broader shift in Norway’s strategic thinking.
With a more unstable security environment, increased military activity in the Arctic, and continued uncertainty surrounding global alliances, Norway is positioning itself for a period of sustained defence investment.
As Støre noted, the plan is not just about immediate needs, but about ensuring Norway’s long-term security in an increasingly unpredictable world.
Unlike many NATO countries, Norway is in a strong financial position to fund its defence expansion.
Thanks to the country’s sovereign wealth fund, the world’s largest, Norway does not need to borrow to finance increased military spending. This allows the government to scale up investment while maintaining fiscal stability.
